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Published submissions p. 7

Read what people are saying about the National Library's Draft Strategic Direction to 2030: Positioning for the Future

Pete Gray

Submitted on 31/08/2016 3:39pm

What sector do you work in?

Local government

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Frequently

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

No

Why or why not?

Or rather, not really. They seem to be more soundbite than theme. While the need to package the strategy is acknowledged, the purpose of the National LIbrary is set out in the Act, and those purposes are not clearly reflected in the three themes in the strategy document.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

No

Why or why not?

The Introduction describes them as "a bold and ambitious set of strategic directions". This is itself a bold claim, not borne out by the rest of the document, yet there are strands of activity that are important for the NLNZ and for the wider community. While a primary purpose of public libraries is to foster literacy, the key roles of the NLNZ are firstly the collection, preservation and making accessible our nation's documentary heritage; and secondly furthering the work of other libraries in NZ. The strategy document pays lip service to this, but adds in a seasoning of social purposes and underlying assumptions in the additional challenges noted on page 2, that go beyond what NLNZ is mandated to deliver or can reasonably achieve. In particular, it is not the role of NLNZ to address social cohesion; and while libraries support literacy, the main governmental players in this area are surely MOE and MBIE. In a sense, we already have one knowledge network - it's called the Internet. It is not clear what advantages would accrue from the centralising tendency implicit in the theme that would outweigh the disadvantages of monopoly provision. It would certainly limit the 'benefits of diversity'.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Significantly scaled up digitisation of NZ content

Why?

This is the one that fits exactly into NLNZ's legislative remit. And is one where the substantially larger resources available to NLNZ than almost all other libraries mean it can contribute significantly.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Local government and schools taking part in a NZ-wide shared library system

Why?

A one-size-fits-all approach is a poor one, and it is hard to see how a national monopoly would avoid the stagnation, inertia and failure to innovate that is typical of centrally-planned and delivered systems - competition is the spur of progress. I would note also that there is no necessary link between shared membership and a single library management system - the former does not necessarily imply the latter. I further note that the costs of participation in Kotui are significant, and beyond the means of many small and medium-sized libraries.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

Public library membership from birth & early childhood

Why?

I'm not sure any of the ideas in this theme are important - or rather, that where imoprtant they fall within the remit of the NLNZ. This one is a plausible aim with nationally-shared library membership, but public libraries are the responsibility of territorial authorities, not NLNZ so it is unclear why this is here.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

National reading strategy based on successful literacy programmes

Why?

This is only problematic because it is not part of the remit of the NLNZ. If this were a strategy document focusing on improving literacy levels as a key factor in improving economic outcomes and enabling people to improve their own lives, then it would be fine.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

Digitisation and distribution of te reo Māori published content

Why?

As noted in the document, much of this material is out of print. This fits exactly with NLNZ's role in the preservation of and provision of access to documentary heritage.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A state-of-the-art National Library space for discussion & debate

Why?

Great for Wellington, of little use for the rest of the country. This would be a waste of scarce resources, and the appropriate place for such exhibitions is surely Te Papa.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

Overall, the document lacks focus, clear outcomes, plain language and defined goals. There is an element of question-begging in the much of the language ('the increasingly complex problems we face as a country', 'allowing us to enjoy the benefits of that diversity'). A simplified, focused approach enables success to be gauged. As it stands, it's hard to see how one could tell whether the strategy had been successfully achieved or not. This focus might most usefully be on: 1) a commitment to providing online access to all collections by 2030 would be (a) in line with NLNZ's legislative remit and (b) a measurable goal. 2) the collecting and preserving of the vast quantity of NZ-originated born-digital content; and 3) supporting other libraries across NZ in their own efforts to provide access and preserve material - in particular with NLNZ's expert knowledge and advice.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

Within the limits outlined above, there is a good fit with our priorities. We see the NLNZ as a key player in the area of access to documentary heritage and a key partner in the preservation of and delivery of access to heritage; and in the dissemination of skills and knowledge throughout the library sector.

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

As a potential partner

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

N/A

Susan Warren, COMET Auckland

Submitted on 31/08/2016 1:55pm

What sector do you work in?

Not for Profit - education-related

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Sometimes

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

The three themes are each important in themselves, and together they could build on each other to reach valuable outcomes for Aotearoa.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

The most obvious link is to the theme "words as taonga", since it fits with the core role of National Library is as a repository for knowledge. The addition of the other two themes recognises National Library's current work in supporting access and connectivity for public and educational libraries; and also the potential for National Library to provide leadership to support more effective strategies to build literacy. The latter goes beyond what most people would see as National Library's role, but it is a logical extension of National Library's role and expertise. It also fills a gap, since current national leadership on literacy (from MOE and TEC) focuses only on literacy learning, rather than on the habit and love of reading in families and communities.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Significantly scaled up digitisation of NZ content

Why?

The data that only 14% of NZ content is currently available online is striking. The internet is the place most people go first to find information, but if local content is not available there, people will instead access content from overseas - meaning that New Zealanders will be less likely to see themselves reflected in the materials they read and use.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

N/A

Why?

N/A

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

National reading strategy based on successful literacy programmes

Why?

We have been promoting the need for a national literacy strategy for some time. This needs to go beyond just learning to read in schools and second-chance adult learning, to include the value of intergenerational connections and of reading for information and pleasure in homes and communities. We suggest that a national strategy should include: Making sure people knew what provision was available, via a national campaign; Continuing to build and support a capable workforce; Informing our practice, policy and investment from data; Ensuring learners in programmes make progress and are equipped to transition to higher levels of study; Working with stakeholders to ensure quality programmes across the system, fit for the diverse purposes of adult lives; Developing a research programme that informs practice and policy; Growing uptake from most vulnerable and high risk or high need learner; Working with partners to ensure all government departments and services know about and respond appropriately to the literacy needs of their constituents or clients; Working across sectors to reduce the pipeline of young people leaving school with insufficient literacy; Commitment to raise the early oral language and school readiness of all our children.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Cross-sector commitment for positive outcomes through reading

Why?

This action is important - in fact it is crucial to the success of any national reading/literacy strategy; however it would be complex and would require concerted effort over several years before any concrete results could be expected. National Library could potentially act as a backbone organisation to bring together local cross-sector partners, through a collective impact model. This backbone coordination role is central to the effectiveness of any cross-sector collaboation and is often under-funded.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

Digitisation and distribution of te reo Māori published content

Why?

As stated in the document, the numbers of people able to converse in Te Reo Maori is declining. This is a seriopus concern and needs to be addressed at every level. Making more content available is one way to support Te Reo speakers to use their language more and therefore gain and maintain fluency; and it would provide an incentive for more people to learn. We commend the National Library for showing leadership to support New Zealand's linguistic diversity, including Te Reo Maori, through all the actions in this section.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

N/A

Why?

N/A

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

We would like to see a greater acknowledgement of the importance of talking and listening to build literacy, recognising that "reading and writing float on a sea of talk". As part of leading a national strategy, we suggest that National Library could have a greater role in tracking literacy-related behaviours and outcomes across the population, in order to inform collective action. We also see a role for National Library in researching what works in the three theme areas. We would like to see more emphasis on overcoming barriers to access, for example visual impairments, digital and geographical challenges, provision in multiple languages.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

We see strong alignment with our Talking Matters project, and with our wider work on intergenerational literacy.

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

We would be keen to discuss potential collaboration where the focus is literacy or learning in Auckland, especially related to our Talking Matters project, or to adult and intergerational literacy.

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

As a potential partner

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

In addition to the actions listed as "most important" in each theme area, we also commend National Library on its plans to support connections among libraries of multiple types, increase availability of digital content, take leadership around literacy, support summer reading programmes and build on New Zealand's linguistic diversity.

Peter Whiteford

Submitted on 31/08/2016 1:36pm

What sector do you work in?

University

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Sometimes

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

No

Why or why not?

Taken as a whole, the strategic themes seem to have set aside the primary function of the National Library which is clearly set out in the Purpose statement in the relevant legislation. Two of the three (the knowledge network and words as taonga) are valuable areas of focus provided that they are seen as contributing to the legislated role of the National Library. The 'nation of readers', however laudable a goal, is not the responsibility of the National Library, and embracing it would involve a significant shifting of scarce resources and an inevitable dilution of the core business.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

No

Why or why not?

As noted above, the areas of focus are too limited in scope, and ought to be positioned within a formal commitment to the empowering legislation. There is nothing here that acknowledges the centrality of the Alexander Turnbull Library as the nation's most significant repository for heritage items and its fundamental importance to research. The direction that seems to be foreshadowed in the areas of focus might lead one to think that the strategic planning has been done under the aegis of the Productivity Commission.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Significantly scaled up digitisation of NZ content

Why?

This is an area that IS the proper responsibility of the Library and one in which it could take a real leadership role. Allied to it, and equally important, is the network connection linking digital content.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

N/A

Why?

N/A

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

N/A

Why?

As noted above, I don't think any of these should be undertaken by the National Library

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

N/A

Why?

As before, none of them. Apart from the fact that this is not and should not be core business, most of the descriptions of what success would look like are vague and provide no measure at all of any real achievement. The first, for example, under Horizon 2, suggests that success will consist of some partnership seeking to achieve an improvement. That strikes me as remarkably unambitious, and even if achieved would offer no guarantee of success, only of some commitment to try to achieve success.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

The National Library is already strong in this dimension. It needs to retain that strength. However, this should not be at the expense of a broad and diverse notion of cultural heritage.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A state-of-the-art National Library space for discussion & debate

Why?

This is worth having, but should not have a high priority. Nice to have, but not necessary.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

Any mention of the ATL. A clear recognition of the core role of the Library, which is partly conveyed in the words as taonga focus, but is absent from the other two.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

In a very limited capacity, as currently formulated

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

Research. Scholarly use of collections. Scholarship adding value to collections.

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

Keep me informed

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

The construction of many of the questions presumes an all-or-nothing endorsement of the three areas of focus. That's unfortunate. The third (words as taonga) is one I can readily endorse; the first, to a limited degree; the second, not at all.

Anonymous

Submitted on 31/08/2016 1:29pm

What sector do you work in?

School

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Sometimes

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

But "Words as taonga" seems too narrow.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

But "A nation of readers" is bigger than just the National Library and should be in partnership (or led by) the Ministry of Education

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Significantly scaled up digitisation of NZ content

Why?

From my personal experience of research into NZ education 1950-1980s I have seen how easily irreplaceable hard copy documents can be damaged or lost.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Not so important for historical documents but huge implications in regard to intellectual property for recent and new materials

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

National reading strategy based on successful literacy programmes

Why?

None of these options quite capture what I think is needed. There should be a national reading strategy involving cross-sector partnerships but led by the MoE (in close partnership with the National Library) rather than by the National Library. The MoE already provides high-quality engaging instructional reading materials to all primary schools that (if used as intended) would lift literacy levels and provide a clear pathway to reading for pleasure but these aspects are not clearly articulated by the MoE. By “successful literacy programmes” I think you mean “reading engagement programmes” such as those run by The Reading Agency in the UK and these would certainly be effective but I think a wider aim of a national reading strategy is that all students can read (through clearly articulated MoE expectations for classroom instruction) as well as wanting and choosing to read.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A cross-sector partnership to improve literacy levels

Why?

Lack of leadership by the MoE

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

N/A

Why?

N/A

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

I think there needs to be a clearer link to the aspect of children learning to read (through partnership with or leadership by the MoE) in order to maximise effectiveness of existing materials and practice in combination with National Library strategy

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

Very closely. I work as a literacy consultant, with a focus on supporting students in years 1-3 in learning to read and wanting to read. I see a lot of potential in clarifying links between the MoE’s instructional reading materials (Ready to Read and Junior Journal) and school libraries in regard to developing the habit of reading for pleasure.

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

As above, I'm interested in clarifying the connections between school reading instruction (and materials) and recreational reading, in particular for students in the first three years of school.

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

As a potential partner

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

I'm especially pleased that you have raised the issue of a national reading strategy because we badly need one.

Anonymous

Submitted on 31/08/2016 12:29pm

What sector do you work in?

National Library staff

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Frequently

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

N/A

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

N/A

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Redeveloped digital services for better interaction with National Library collections

Why?

There's no point in having significantly scaled up digitisation of NZ content if people are struggling to access it.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Connection of the NZ network linking digital content across all sectors

Why?

N/A

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

National reading strategy based on successful literacy programmes

Why?

Which includes prisons.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Distribute te reo material through e-devices to te reo Māori learners

Why?

Had to choose one

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A state-of-the-art National Library space for discussion & debate

Why?

If discussions and debates are streamed and accesible across the country then this would be less problematic.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

Music. The National Library is in a unique position to promote musical literacy and enjoyment nationwide. And what better way to supplement reading for pleasure than with singing.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

N/A

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

N/A

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

Not at all

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

Whilst it is important to discuss and agree on our strategic directions it is also important to make a commitment to developing and improving our current services. Ideally these big picture decisions would trickle down to the day to day business but that is often not the case. I'm sure many of our services could be improved given the time, budget and attention.

Catalyst IT Limited, Kathryn Tyree

Submitted on 31/08/2016 12:24pm

What sector do you work in?

Private sector

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Sometimes

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

They are very broad and hard to disagree with. Equity of access to information should be considered in all areas of decision-making, including consideration of access to skills and technology, and users with special requirements e.g. sight-impaired.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

Broadly, yes. We assume the definition of “reading” is broad, and referring to all taonga held by the National Library, so access to content in all mediums held is required for all people of New Zealand. We particularly agree with the sentiments about NZ being as small as some cities, and able to adopt a city-mentality in regard to the National Library’s role in procuring content services on behalf of all libraries. The National Library are the only organisation in a position to make these negotiations on behalf of all New Zealanders. We feel the National Library should ensure service/technology providers prioritise the security of personal data, and should not accept solutions that dictate decisions about ownership or distribution of taonga, or the ability to engage with other content services, locally or internationally. All software should support not only open standards , but also open source software. The NZ government open access and licensing (NZGOA L), framework, including the recent Software Extension, is extremely encouraging in this regard. In short, NZ needs to adopt open solutions, in order to engage with local and international initiatives, provide solutions that can be accessible to everyone, and to look upward and out.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Redeveloped digital services for better interaction with National Library collections

Why?

Because getting this right should create an open platform on which all other proposed ideas will have a better chance of succeeding.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

National contracts for licensing e-content and new systems

Why?

There is too much scope for disparate agreements which do not interoperate to deny cohesive access for the user. There is too much scope for the vendors to dictate the terms on which libraries can operate and interact.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

Cross-sector commitment for positive outcomes through reading

Why?

Equity of access requires cross-sector collaboration.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Distribute te reo material through e-devices to te reo Māori learners

Why?

Could be limited by device choice and access, requires careful assessment of software and device recommendations.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

When we embrace the diverse needs of individuals who may need additional support, we provide solutions that are better for everyone. Specific examples of this would be providing solutions that can be read and translated into multiple languages, or read digitally by people who are sight impaired. Open solutions can excel in these areas. When we apply open values to technology problems, the decisions we make tend to be inclusive, create opportunities for innovation and collaboration and leave pathways open for future evolution.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

We think this is important and a great idea, but not an easy problem to solve. For the size of NZ this would be an expensive idea/problem to solve on our own. There are international open source technology projects which are working together to support digital preservation and new formats.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

A strong statement about commitment to equity of access and what that means. Commitment to supporting open standards and technologies (perhaps already implied in the desire to be able to interact internationally/innovate). Commitment to procuring from and supporting the NZ-based companies who care deeply about the work and collections of the National Library.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

Commitment to open values to enable sharing of knowledge, ideas and content.

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

Advice and expertise around the adoption of open technology solutions.

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

As a potential partner

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

Catalyst are very proud of the work we do with libraries, and could comment on a lot of topics. For the purpose of this response we have focussed on our expert area: supporting equity of access and open values though technology choices

New Zealand Micrographic Services Limited

Submitted on 31/08/2016 11:36am

What sector do you work in?

Private sector

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Frequently

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

They support the strategic direction for the country to increase literacy and access to knowledge to grow our “knowledge economy” and reduce dependence on the primary and tourism industries.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

Yes - but only if you are funded to undertake them properly – otherwise activities you are mandated to do are not done (refer below) and that means no one else does either – to the detriment of New Zealand. We see that the National Library has an important role beyond that defined in the act, as a leader facilitating agreed strategies for literacy, supporting/developing/protecting our culture through managing heritage materials and enabling fair access to knowledge. The National Library also has a role supporting and enabling (possibly through managing the funding of) public and private organisations to deliver on that strategy. Given the mandated role of the National Library we have concerns that the National Library and Central Government in general appears to be divesting cost and responsibility to Local Government and other user groups. For example: a. Cuts to Services to Schools resulted in protest action on your front steps. b. Similarly the reduction in Services to Public Libraries has raised concern and comment. c. Certain Collections have deteriorated through funding cuts, impacting collection preservation quality through degradation and loss. The lack of reformatting has an impact for future access, a particular example is the national Newspaper Collection.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Network connection linking digital content across all sectors

Why?

We believe that creating an open environment that enables a panel of accredited systems to federate data access would benefit the sector while allowing organisations to create and manage their own identity through independent system choices.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Local government and schools taking part in a NZ-wide shared library system

Why?

Many organisations have investment in current systems, collections and IP that support their operating model e.g. University IP management. Any attempt to impose alternative universal solutions is likely to be highly problematic. This area will require considerable analysis to identify the drivers behind organisational business models and cross sector collaboration to reach agreement on where and how access may be given or monetised. Of equal importance the National Library risks disenfranchising communities of their own rights to choose a system that suits local needs by imposing national infrastructure across them. We think it is important that communities or interest groups have the right to retain and develop their own identity and the choice of infrastructure can be a determining factor in their ability to execute their plans.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

National reading strategy based on successful literacy programmes

Why?

We believe that National Library has a leadership role and that by creating a national strategy in consultation with the sector, the National Library will guide the sector and empower the desired outcomes

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Cross-sector commitment for positive outcomes through reading

Why?

While we support the concept, the reality is that commitment is a concept that is open to interpretation, unless it is a contracted or mandated obligation.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

On the basis that a "rising tide" lifts all, developing expertise and sharing knowledge across the sector in all aspects of acquisition, curation, preservation and sharing will increase capacity and availability to our national Taonga.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A national documentary heritage framework &amp; strategy for institutional collaboration

Why?

We support all the ideas proposed for 'Words as taonga' including the creation of a national documentary heritage framework and strategy for institutional collaboration. However the very nature of cross sector collaboration suggests this will be the most problematic idea.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

In the past decade the lack of consultation has led to problems for the National Library regarding Newspapers (2008); Schools (2015) and Public libraries (past few years). We believe that there needs to be an acknowledgement of poor consultation and a clear statement and commitment to dialogue that leads to Involvement of communities and sector interest groups to ensure their interests are understood and addressed.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

Good governance and quality thought leadership from National Library, with New Zealand’s present and future considerations in mind, promote a targeted and appropriate strategy which we hope will be funded appropriately in difficult economic times. This targeted and appropriate strategy will enable our organisation to offer the better, targeted support.

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

Intellectual discussions and thought leadership around mass digitisation; Discussion around the One knowledge network and a panel of community engagement platforms that can all interact – rather than one system to rule them all. Thought leadership around the National Newspaper Collection (refer http://micrographics.co.nz/case-studies/save-our-papers )

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

As a potential partner

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

We would value the opportunity to collaborate with National Library and other organisations, to share our expertise in creating digital content and our knowledge/thought leadership in some specific areas. For example: a. consulting with library staff on delivering the best strategy for digitising the National Newspaper collection, b. efficient mass-scale digitisation of all New Zealand books, c. efficient mass-scale digitisation of a variety of New Zealand content including AudioVisual and ephemera, d. consulting with library staff to deliver the best outcomes for cost-effective digital content creation, e. consulting with library staff to develop a national approach to user-generated content sharing platform linked with library content f. enhancing online community engagement with library content, g. explore ways to enrichment knowledge around online holdings, h. increase online resources especially of NZ heritage material, i. create a more nationally networked approach to Library activities. j. develop a comprehensive and cohesive (distributed) National Newspaper Strategy

Anonymous

Submitted on 31/08/2016 10:34am

What sector do you work in?

N/A

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Sometimes

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

These three themes will bring great benefit to New Zealanders. The National Library has an important role to preserve the documentary heritage and also to promote literacy and life-long learning. The 'Nation of Readers" theme has opportunities for many libraries.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

The strategic directions fit well with the National Library roles to collect, protect and share our documentary heritage. It is important that the National Library supports the work of other libraries and provides leadership in collaborations, sharing knowledge and initiatives to improve literacy.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Redeveloped digital services for better interaction with National Library collections

Why?

Much of the material held by the National Library is unique and as such it is important that it is easily accessible. Making the collections from partner institutions also readily available would increase the opportunities for new works and co-creation. There is already success in this area with Papers Past. This is an opportunity for the National Library to lead.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

N/A

Why?

There could be great potential to make a seamless service for people of all ages in New Zealand. There will be some issues around how items get back to their home locations and problems with items and fines. On the other hand, it could be a system like the current Kotui system. There are currently problems with the catalogue and the 'one size fits all' approach that would need to be resolved. Also how this would be funded and ensure the infrastructure is maintained.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

Programmes to inspire reading & support literacy

Why?

There are already many examples of successful programmes. These will need to be developed and delivered in different formats to suit the different age groups. There are opportunities for these to be delivered as partnerships or collaborations.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A cross-sector partnership to improve literacy levels

Why?

If this means that connecting schools to public libraries is a mechanism for the National Library to replace it's excellent service to schools there is a problem. Public libraries have not been funded to provide class sets of material or text books and so there will be budgetary consequences if the national Library service no longer exists.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

The 'born digital' generation are here. Other generations are also choosing to research digitally.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

New National Library programmes encouraging learning about constitutional documents

Why?

There is no reference to key partnerships with Archives New Zealand and Te Papa.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

I think that the broad scope of work is appropriate for the National Library

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

The draft strategic directions are generally a good fit with the organisations priorites

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

N/A

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

As a potential partner

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

N/A

Anonymous

Submitted on 31/08/2016 10:29am

What sector do you work in?

National Library staff

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Frequently

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

The three broad themes work well together, complimenting and supporting each other.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

They do fit with my view of the National Library, however I also feel that the National Library could be more involved with developing the skills for future jobs in the sector through either more professional development and working with universities to support training in the three themes. Who will be the work force to support this direction if we don't support/develop the education needed for them?

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Redeveloped digital services for better interaction with National Library collections

Why?

It is all about access for people, everything else will follow if the services are well established and promoted.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

National contracts for licensing e-content and new systems

Why?

Trying to get everyone (schools, public libraries etc) to agree on one system could be problematic.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

A cross-sector partnership to improve literacy levels

Why?

There needs to be an extremely strong partnership with the MOE for this theme to work. We cannot tell teachers what to do, that is not our place and it will seem like we are doing that unless it is made clear what our intentions are. They are the experts in teaching literacy, however we can support them, give them ideas and provide access to information.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

National reading strategy based on successful literacy programmes

Why?

Again, we need to be very careful telling teachers how to teach literacy unless programmes are developed with the MOE and experts in the field and the National Library is used as a support/delivery system. It just needs to be clear what our position is.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

New National Library programmes encouraging learning about constitutional documents

Why?

It places importance of these historical documents and it makes our situation unique having them and being able to share them with the public, in particular schools.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A state-of-the-art National Library space for discussion & debate

Why?

Only accessible to the people in that city, not the rest of New Zealand.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

Opportunities to work with tertiary providers to develop jobs to support the strategic directions. How do we teach the skills for these to all happen e.g. Digital literacy?

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

N/A

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

N/A

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

Keep me informed

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

There needs to be some drastic changes and initiatives to put the National Library at the forefront of future change, not play catch up with other sectors.

Anonymous

Submitted on 31/08/2016 10:07am

What sector do you work in?

National Library staff

How often do you interact with the National Library of New Zealand?

Frequently

Do you think the 3 broad themes outlined (One knowledge network, A nation of readers, Words as taonga) are the right areas of focus for the National Library looking towards 2030?

Yes

Why or why not?

Because they sum up the major functions of a large library system in today's world.

Do the strategic directions fit with your view of the role of a national library?

Yes

Why or why not?

I have a lot of admiration for the way in which New Zealand's National Library has always gone beyond the traditional role of a national library--the preservation of a country's heritage material- to take a much wider role in our country's general literacy. Their Services to Schools, for instance, is unique. No other country in the world has a similar support system for teachers operating on a national basis. I believe we should be proud of our innovation in extending the traditional national library role.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'One knowledge network' do you consider to be most important?

Local government & schools taking part in a shared library system

Why?

I believe co-ordination and co-operation are much better and more economical than having different library systems competing with each other for the same market sector. With different clearly defined roles, all can work together to provide a world-leading information environment.

Which of the proposed 'One knowledge network' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Significantly scaled up digitisation of NZ content

Why?

Presumably cost would be a big factor here. Unless a really good infrastructure is set up, guaranteeing ease of access, I don't see the point in continuing to spend more and more money. As the amount of content increases, it can become increasingly difficulty for people to navigate their way through it. I feel this has already happened with the Services to Schools website.

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'A nation of readers' do you consider to be most important?

Public library membership from birth & early childhood

Why?

Because I believe that public libraries are the logical reading engagement specialists, as they open a whole world of literacy to all New Zealanders, regardless of health, wealth or academic status, at no cost. To me the role of National Library in reading engagement should be to provide the information technology support and expertise to enable public and other library systems to function at their absolute best.

Which of the proposed 'A nation of readers' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

Distribute te reo material through e-devices to te reo Māori learners

Why?

The range of technological confidence and competence is so great, as well as the level of device being used to access the resources, that I don't see how this would work. Possibly the young could be recruited to assist the old?

Which of the proposed ideas for success for 'Words as taonga' do you consider to be most important?

Because that is one of the things we do, and we do it well. I feel some work should go into clarifying for the general public the difference between National Library and National Archives. There seems to be quite a lot of confusion about this. I think their respective functions should either be clarified or merged.

Which of the proposed 'Words as taonga' ideas for success do you consider to be most problematic?

A state-of-the-art National Library space for discussion &amp; debate

Why?

I believe it would be of limited use, as presumably it would require people to go to Wellington (or Auckland?) to make use of this.

What do you think is missing from the National Library’s draft strategic directions?

Detailed information on how the end result is going to be achieved--we have plenty of 'what', but not enough 'how'. Even at this draft stage of the plan, I feel the means of implementing it should be discussed more fully. This gets back to my earlier points about needing the infrastructure in place before going ahead, or the whole thing is of limited use.

How does the National Library’s draft strategic directions fit with your organisation’s priorities?

As I work for the National Library, this question is not really applicable in my case.

In which areas are you or your organisation interested in partnering with or contributing to the National Library?

Looking at this hypothetically, I would say that I would be a great deal more interested if I knew more about the National Library. With the exception of teachers, who are generally familiar with the National Library through Services to Schools, the general public does not know much about what the National Library actually does beyond the heritage function--and even here, many people do not realise that the Alexander Turnbull is part of the National Library. National Library needs to raise its profile and clarify its point of difference from other library systems.

How would you like to be involved as the strategic directions are progressed?

Keep me informed

Any other thoughts you'd like to share?

I believe there are great possibilities for the National Library to work with other library systems in New Zealand in a clearly defined role. To me this would be providing the expertise to ensure that digital and other information is accessible to all--it is infrastructure, it is infrastructure, it is infrastructure! The heritage function, and support for young New Zealanders in the education system are the other two roles I consider vital for the National Library to establish leadership--even to maintain its relevance-- in today's information landscape.